Government signs first identity assurance contracts

Allows government to be confident that users of online services are who they say they are

The Post Office, Verizon, Experian, Digidentity and Mydex have signed contracts to supply the first live identity assurance services to help enable secure, online government transactions.

Under the cross-government identity assurance framework, the providers will supply a service that will enable people to assert their identity online safely and securely, and allow government to be confident that users of online services are who they say they are.

The Cabinet Office will manage the development of the identity assurance service on behalf of the whole of government.

"We will now be working closely with those that have signed, who represent the range of types of providers needed to make online identity provision a success," said Steve Wreyford, head of comms and marketing, ID assurance programme at GDS.